Review: Can’t Wait to Leave at 53two ‘explores isolation in the city, sexuality and vulnerability’

Written and directed by Stephen Leach in his playwriting debut, Can’t Wait to Leave at 53Two explores social isolation in a bustling city, the alienation of bisexuality in queer and straight spaces, and young people’s struggle to find connection in a world that often feels indifferent.

First performed at Waterloo East Theatre in February 2023 where it received rave reviews, the monodrama follows Ryan, a pessimistic 19-year-old Deliveroo employee who is encouraged by his more successful brother to move from Luton to London.

Can’t Wait to Leave at 53two

Can’t Wait to Leave weaves a layered story, exploring the intersections of class, sexuality and mental health. I ultimately went into this play not knowing what to expect and left with a lot to reflect on.

Zach Hawkins plays the compelling and gritty Ryan. His portrayal is both mesmerising and unsettling, capturing the essence of someone who desperately wants to leave behind a life (and city) they no longer recognise, but unsure of where they truly belong. 

A man grappling with his bisexuality

The one-man show explores the sometimes overwhelming cultural landscape of London as Ryan, grappling with his bisexuality, struggles to navigate societal expectations, afford to pay his rent and navigate brutal dating apps like Grindr.

The unexpected departure of Ryan’s older brother leaves him adrift, abandoned, and uncertain of his place in the world.

His search for stability leads to an ill-fated and manipulative relationship with Richard, a 50-year-old colleague of his brother. 

Exploring the harsh realities of life in the LGBTQ+ community

The play delves into important themes not always shown in theatre, particularly the harsh realities the LGBTQ+ community face starting from an early age and the occasionally exploitative nature of the body, sex and wealth. 

With a runtime of 75 minutes, there is a lot of meat to cut through in Can’t Wait to Leave, leaving little time to reflect.

But in this case, the pacing seems deliberate as it represents the overwhelming pressure Ryan faces throughout the story.

Minimalist set design with powerful results

The set design is minimalistic – a simple black backdrop and a couple of chairs representing the A&E waiting room where Ryan narrates to us.

However, the lighting plays an important role in setting the mood for certain scenes and bringing us into Ryan’s mindset.

The vivid red spotlights symbolise Ryan’s moments of intense passion – whether rooted in lust, rage, or pain – while eerie turquoise hues reflect his isolation during his lowest moments, helping anchor the audience in the emotional state he occupies.

At the heart of the show is Zach Hawkins’ performance as Ryan.

The character is rich with vulnerability, anger and desperation. His energy never falters, playing Ryan  with such emotional depth and nuance, making him a relatable and sometimes polarising character.

The play’s climax is emotional and unyielding, as Zach draws the audience into Ryan’s inner turmoil.

Monodramas can be challenging to invest into, but the charismatic Zach rises to the occasion, welcoming us into Ryan’s raw and unfiltered perspective of the world.

Tickets for Can’t Wait to Leave at 53two

Can’t Wait to Leave is currently showing at 53Two from 23 October 2024 to 25th October 2024.

You can get your tickets here